Suggested Dosing
Osteoarthritis, TMJ Arthritis
500 mg PO TID OR
1500 mg PO qDay
Suggested Uses
Relief of symptoms of osteoarthritis, temporomandibular joint arthritis
Efficacy
Slower-acting than ibuprofen, but comparable effectiveness after 6-12 weeks of treatment
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Possible poor glycemic control in diabetics; monitor blood glucose
Increased intraocular pressure (see Cautions)
Constipation
Diarrhea
Drowsiness
Headache
Heartburn
Hyperinsulinemia
Nausea
Skin reactions
Warnings
Contraindications
None reported
Cautions
Diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, hypersensitivity to seafood (derived from shellfish)
Increased intraocular pressure observed in controlled clinical trial (JAMA Ophthal May 23, 2013; published online)
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category: N/A
Lactation: N/A
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Intermediate in glycosaminoglycan synthesis
Absorbed: glucosamine sulfate better absorbed than other forms of glucosamine, or chondroitin